Ethiopian Airlines takes delivery of first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines announces it has taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.

In a press release copied to Ghana Business News, it said: “This significant milestone was celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and esteemed representatives from Airbus and Thales.”

The state-of-the-art aircraft is said to be the first to feature Thales’s AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system.

In his remarks, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are thrilled to welcome the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet, solidifying our position as leaders in aviation technology. This aircraft embodies cutting-edge advancements offering superior passenger comfort, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

Together, we are pioneering a sustainable future for aviation in Africa.”

The Airbus A350-1000 is considered the airline industry’s large wide-body aircraft of reference, and accommodates from 350 to 410 passengers in a standard three-class configuration, with 40% more area for premium-category seating. It is also said to be fuel efficient.

In the 2023/2024 fiscal year, Ethiopian Airlines which is Africa’s largest and most successful airline company, announced revenue in excess of $7 billion, a 14 per cent increase from the previous year.

The airline also flew 17.1 million passengers around the world and transported more than 750,000 tons of cargo, and has extended its reach to 139 international destinations making the Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa, the largest airline hub in Africa.